PURCHASING A LONGBOARD

EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW

Welcome to the ultimatelongboardsbuying guide! Whether you're an experienced rider or just getting started, choosing the right longboard can significantly impact your riding experience. Longboards are not just a mode of transport but also a way to express your style and enjoy the thrill of carving down streets and hills.

In this detailed buying guide, we will guide you through the essential factors to consider when choosing a longboard. Whether you're into cruising, freestyle tricks, downhill racing, or simply commuting, we have everything you need. By the end of this guide, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to make an informed choice and find the longboard that fits your personal style and riding ambitions. Let's jump in and explore the exciting world of longboarding!

When buying a longboard, you should be aware of the following, which we will discuss in this buying guide:

- Should I opt for a longboard or cruiser

- What is a cruiser skateboard

- Considering the dimensions of the longboard

- Features to take into account

- Comparing the top brands on the market

- Answers to the most commonly asked questions

- Any other factors to consider when purchasing a longboard

SHOULD I CHOOSE A LONGBOARD OR CRUISER?

The choice between a longboard and a cruiser ultimately depends on your riding preferences and intended use. Each type of board offers distinct advantages and is designed for different riding styles.

Longboards are perfect for those seeking a smooth and stable ride. Their longer decks provide ample foot space and stability, making them ideal for cruising, carving, and downhill riding. Longboards typically feature softer and larger wheels, which absorb bumps and cracks in the road, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride over longer distances. If you're aiming to cover more ground, explore your surroundings, or ride down hills with ease, a longboard is a fantastic option.

Conversely, cruisers are more compact and agile, making them ideal for navigating crowded streets and urban environments. They generally have smaller decks and harder wheels, offering a snappier and more responsive ride.

Cruisers excel in quick turns and maneuvering through tight spaces, making them a popular choice for commuting or shorter rides around town. If you value portability and the ability to swiftly move through traffic, a cruiser might be the better option for you.

Consider your riding style and the environment you'll be riding in. If you're looking to cruise along beach paths, boardwalks, or open spaces, a longboard's smooth and stable ride will be your best choice. On the other hand, if you'll be weaving through city streets, maneuvering around pedestrians, or hopping on and off public transport, a cruiser's compact size and agility will be more suitable.

It's worth noting that there is some overlap between these two categories, and certain longboards can also function as cruisers. Some longboards offer a hybrid design, combining the stability of a longboard with the maneuverability of a cruiser. These versatile boards can be an excellent choice if you want to enjoy the best of both worlds.

In conclusion, the decision between a longboard and a cruiser comes down to your personal preferences, riding style, and the terrain you'll be riding on. Consider the purpose of your rides, the distance you'll be covering, and the type of maneuverability you need. Regardless of your choice, both longboards and cruisers offer an exhilarating way to get around and enjoy the freedom of riding on wheels.

WHAT DEFINES A CRUISER SKATEBOARD?

Cruiser skateboards are a popular choice for riders who prioritize portability, agility, and smooth transportation. Their shorter length compared to longboards makes them lightweight and easy to handle. The compact size ofcruiser skateboardsnot only makes it easy to carry while on the go but also helps riders execute tighter turns, enhancing agility and control.

Seen as a balance between traditional skateboards and longboards, cruiser skateboards provide the advantages of both. They merge the agility and responsiveness of skateboards with the stability and comfort of the larger, softer wheels typically found on longboards. The larger wheels on cruisers offer a smoother experience as they better absorb road vibrations and bumps, making them an excellent option for commuting and traveling from one point to another.

Cruiser skateboards offer more than just practicality. Although they aren't specifically designed for performing technical tricks like traditional skateboards, they still provide plenty of opportunities for creative riding. Their maneuverability allows riders to explore their environment, find unique paths, and add flair to both their daily commute and leisurely rides around the city.

The stability cruiser skateboards offer, due to their larger and softer wheels, ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable ride. This stability is especially useful for beginners or those who favor a smoother ride without losing maneuverability. Whether you're gliding along the boardwalk, weaving through busy sidewalks, or simply enjoying the freedom of skating, cruiser skateboards offer a fun and effective mode of transportation.

FEATURES TO CONSIDER

LONGBOARD DECK SHAPE & SIZE

When selecting a longboard, the shape and size of the deck are crucial in shaping the overall riding experience. Different deck shapes are tailored to specific riding styles and preferences.

Pintail longboards are characterized by a tapered shape with rounded ends. This classic design offers stability and control, making it perfect for cruising and carving. The extended wheelbase and narrower width provide a smooth and predictable ride, allowing riders to maintain balance and maneuver easily.

Drop-through longboards feature a cutout in the deck for truck mounting. This design lowers the center of gravity, increasing stability and making them ideal for downhill riding. The lowered platform also offers a comfortable foot position and enhanced control, making it easier to push and slide.

Double kick longboard decksfeature upward curves or raised tails at both ends of the deck. This design allows riders to perform tricks, flips, and ollies, making them popular among freestyle riders and skateboarders transitioning to longboards. The symmetrical shape enables riding in either direction and facilitates quick turns and spins.

It's essential to consider your riding style and the terrain you plan to ride on when selecting the shape and size of your longboard. If you enjoy cruising along coastal paths or commuting in urban areas, a pintail or drop-through shape might be more fitting. Conversely, if you're interested in downhill racing or freestyle tricks, a double kick longboard would be more appropriate.

LONGBOARD WHEELS - SIZE AND DUROMETER

When choosing a longboard, wheel size and durometer (hardness) are important factors to consider. The right combination of wheel size and durometer can greatly influence your riding style and performance, as well as your ability to handle various terrains.

For those seeking speed and stability, larger wheels are preferable. They provide a larger contact area with the ground, enabling faster acceleration and maintaining momentum. Larger wheels also handle road bumps and cracks more effectively, resulting in a smoother ride and enhanced stability.

On the other hand, if maneuverability and quick turns are what you prioritize, smaller wheels are a better option. They offer greater agility and responsiveness, allowing you to navigate crowded areas and tight corners effortlessly. Smaller wheels also have less rotational mass, making them easier to speed up and slow down.

It's not just wheel size that matters; the durometer of the wheels also plays a significant role in your ride. Softer wheels with a lower durometer rating are perfect for cruising on rough or uneven surfaces. They absorb vibrations and bumps, delivering a more comfortable and enjoyable ride. Softer wheels also provide increased grip, enhancing control and stability during slides and turns.

In contrast, harder wheels with a higher durometer rating perform better on smooth surfaces and are favored by those who enjoy sliding and executing tricks. They offer less grip but provide greater control and precision for slides, power slides, and technical maneuvers.

THE WEIGHT CAPACITY

The weight capacity of a longboard is a vital factor to ensure both comfort and safety while riding. Each longboard has a specified weight limit that indicates the maximum load it can effectively handle. It is essential to verify this weight capacity to ensure that the longboard can support your body weight comfortably.

Opting for a longboard with a weight capacity that surpasses your own weight is recommended, as it provides an additional safety margin and ensures optimal performance. If the weight limit is exceeded, it might affect the board's stability, responsiveness, and overall durability. Riding a longboard not designed to support your weight can lead to reduced control, an increased risk of accidents, and potential damage to the board.

By choosing a longboard with a suitable weight capacity, you can enjoy a smooth and stable riding experience. It ensures that the board remains responsive to your movements and maintains its structural integrity, allowing you to confidently explore various riding styles and techniques.

Remember to factor in your body weight and any additional gear or equipment you might carry while riding, such as backpacks or protective gear. It's always wise to select a longboard that can comfortably accommodate your weight and any possible variations.

Assessing the weight capacity is an essential yet straightforward step when choosing the right longboard. By confirming that the longboard can accommodate your weight, you can ride with confidence, knowing that you have selected a board built to meet your specific needs and enhance your enjoyment on the road.

LOADED

Loaded is a brand renowned for creating exceptional longboards, offering riders a blend of quality craftsmanship, innovative design, and top-tier performance. There are several reasons why Loaded is recognized as a brand with outstanding longboards.

Loaded longboards are distinguished by their meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship. Each longboard is carefully made using premium materials, ensuring durability and longevity. Loaded utilizes advanced construction techniques and high-quality materials like bamboo and fiberglass to craft boards that are not only strong but also provide excellent flexibility and responsiveness.

Loaded longboards are acclaimed for their exceptional ride quality. Their distinctive board shapes, camber profiles, and concaves are crafted to optimize performance and enhance the rider's experience. Whether you're carving down hills, cruising through town, or performing tricks, Loaded longboards deliver a responsive and lively ride that caters to various riding styles and preferences.

1. Innovation is core to Loaded's philosophy. They continually push the boundaries of longboard design, introducing features and technologies that enhance performance and improve the overall riding experience. From their unique Flex 1-5 rating system to their vibration-dampening systems and responsive trucks, Loaded is constantly innovating to offer riders cutting-edge longboard technology.

Loaded longboards also emphasize environmental sustainability. They are dedicated to using eco-friendly materials and sustainable manufacturing practices, reducing their environmental impact. This eco-conscious approach ensures that riders can enjoy their longboarding adventures while contributing to a more sustainable future.

OCEAN PACIFIC

Ocean Pacific is a brand that has built a strong reputation in the longboarding community, known for producing boards that combine classic surf-inspired style with reliable performance. Several attributes make Ocean Pacific stand out as a trusted name in longboards.

Craftsmanship and thoughtful design are fundamental to Ocean Pacific’s approach. Each longboard is constructed with dependable, high-quality materials that guarantee durability and long-term performance. Their construction focuses on strength and stability while maintaining the relaxed, beach-culture aesthetic the brand is known for.

Ocean Pacific longboards are celebrated for their smooth, enjoyable ride. Their shapes, deck profiles, and flex patterns are designed to provide comfort and control, whether you’re cruising along the boardwalk, carving gentle turns, or commuting through town. Riders can rely on Ocean Pacific boards to offer a stable platform with responsive handling, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.

The brand’s heritage is deeply embedded in surf culture, and this essence is reflected in their longboard lineup. Ocean Pacific embodies a lifestyle of outdoor fun, freedom, and a connection to the coast. Their designs often express this identity through vibrant graphics and classic surfboard-inspired silhouettes, providing riders with a board that looks as good as it feels to ride.

With their combination of reliable craftsmanship, ride quality, and timeless surf style, Ocean Pacific has established itself as a go-to brand for longboarders seeking both performance and personality. When selecting a longboard, riders can trust Ocean Pacific to deliver a well-crafted board that captures the spirit of coastal cruising.

VOLTAGE

One of the key aspects that distinguish Voltage is the robust construction of their longboards. They use strong, high-quality materials—typically durable maple or bamboo composites—to create boards that are both sturdy and lightweight. This combination allows riders to cruise, carve, or commute with confidence, knowing their board can withstand daily use and the demands of various riding styles.

Voltage is also noted for its attention to detail in both design and performance. Their longboards often feature striking graphics, bold colors, and clean finishes that appeal to riders who want a board that looks as impressive as it rides. Beyond aesthetics, Voltage focuses on functionality with quality components like responsive trucks, smooth-rolling bearings, and grippy wheels, all working together to provide a stable, comfortable, and enjoyable ride.

The brand offers a diverse range of longboards to suit riders of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a reliable first board, a cruiser seeking something smooth and easy to ride, or a more advanced rider in search of improved carving and control, Voltage has options to meet different needs and preferences.

For riders who enjoy customizing their setups, Voltage also offers a variety of components and accessories. From wheels and trucks to grip tape and hardware, riders can enhance their boards to match their unique style and performance objectives.

If you’re looking for a longboard that balances quality, style, and affordability, Voltage is a brand worth considering. Their dedication to solid craftsmanship and rider-focused design makes them an excellent choice for longboarders of all kinds.